The Medicare program is such a popular program because it helps cover many of its enrollees’ medical and drug-related costs. With so much covered, many wonder if Medicare insurance covers dental care. After all, a trip to the dentist can be expensive, even if it’s just a check up on your pearly whites. Sadly, you may not even receive a discount if you’re missing teeth and using dentures, either. As one gentleman used to say, “I’m paying $80 a trip, and I have two teeth. That’s $40 a tooth!”
So, does Medicare insurance cover dental services like your dentist visits? Unfortunately, if you’re covered by Original Medicare, the answer is often no. Original Medicare doesn’t cover what’s considered routine dental costs, like most cleanings, extractions, fillings, and other common procedures. It also won’t cover dental equipment like dentures or dental plates.
If you’re on Medicare, what are your dental options?
Does Medicare Insurance Cover Dental Services?
We didn’t say that Original Medicare never covers dental procedures, because sometimes, it does. These instances are extremely limited, though. Medicare Part A will cover dental services in specific situations, like if you’re in the hospital and need a procedure. For example, if you’re in a car accident and your jaw needs medically reconstructed, Original Medicare may cover the surgery. It may also cover a dental exam you need for a surgery.
If you need a dental service for something that would otherwise be covered by Original Medicare, the dental procedure MAY be covered.
Essentially, if you require a dental procedure for something else that Original Medicare normally covers, there is a chance it may be covered. Before expecting coverage, double-check on the specific circumstances of your situation in your plan or contact your dental office (who may be able to help you). Medicare Supplement, or Medigap, plans may also help pay for dental expenses by assisting with Original Medicare deductibles and coinsurances.
Getting More Dental Coverage
If you’re interested in coverage options that may available in your area, we suggest speaking with a licensed insurance agent. They may be able to find you an insurance plan available in your area and if plans are available, review a plan’s benefits with you to evaluate whether the plan fits your unique needs. Different plans have their own pros and cons, so this is where it helps to meet up with a licensed insurance agent.
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A trip to the dentist can be expensive. Americans spent an average of $625 on out-of-pocket dental expenses. A person’s yearly costs can skyrocket if they need anything beyond regular checkups. Even a single silver filling can cost up to $150, and that’s for one filling. Getting this kind of filling is also one of the least expensive dental procedures. This is why some form of dental coverage can be beneficial for seniors.
